His height has led some to ponder a possible position switch. Some see him as an offensive lineman. Others were curious about his pass-catching skills.

“I was talking with someone who thought (Nelson) was as good a tight end prospect as they’ve had,” Ferentz said. “I could see that, but we really think he’s a good defensive end.”

Early gift: It takes time for recruits to develop, which is why Ferentz ranks the return of offensive lineman Brandon Scherff as the most important commitment for 2014. Scherff could have entered the NFL Draft, but decided in December to return as a senior.

“He didn’t get any stars, but the biggest recruit we got was Brandon Scherff,” Ferentz said. “Christmas came early. I don’t know if I’m allowed to say that as a public employee.